New research reveals that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these treatments should be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural management.
